The European Union Naval Operation to Counter Human Smuggling in the Southern and Central Mediterranean

05/12/2016 | 18:30 - 20:00 | DGAP Berlin | Members only

Speech

Category:

In 2015, the EU launched the European Union Naval Operation, also known as Operation SOPHIA, aiming to counter human trafficking in the southern and central Mediterranean. Critics argue that the operation might act as a “magnet” to migrants; others see it as an important element of the EU’s broader comprehensive response to the migration crisis, focusing on fighting instability in the region and preventing further loss of life at sea.

Rear Admiral (UH) Enrico Credendino of the Italian Navy was appointed commander of Operation SOPHIA in 2015. Prior to this, he was the force commander at the European Naval Forces for the counter-piracy mission EUNAVFOR ATALANTA and head of the Plans and Policy Department in the Italian Navy General Staff. He was appointed to Rear Admiral (UH) in 2014.

The discussion will be held in English and moderated by Jana Puglierin, Head of Program, Alfred von Oppenheim-Center for European Policy Studies, DGAP.